Oppositional Defiant Disorder: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Oppositional defiant disorder is one of the clinical diagnoses that brings with it a series of behavioral complications. Often, one hears reports in places like school and work that reflect deep discomfort with these situations. On the other hand, the lack of data gives rise to feelings of exclusion and inequality. In general terms, people who suffer from this clinical condition carry out actions that harm certain social areas that they frequent. Although certain attitudes may be typical of certain ages and evolutionary moments of the human being, this condition gives rise to notable differences with respect to ways of understanding life.

In this PsychologyFor article we will provide you with information about Oppositional defiant disorder: what it is, causes, symptoms and treatment

What is oppositional defiant disorder?

Oppositional defiant disorder is a behavior alteration which is characterized by the persistence of a constant state of disobedience, defiance, hostility and contempt towards authority figures. That is, this pathology has two different faces. On the one hand, the negativity towards orders given and, on the other hand, the challenge towards the rules through actions that harm the balance of places.

According to the DSM-V⁽¹⁾, this clinical picture can be located based on a series of specific diagnostic criteria. We detail them below:

• Pattern of anger, irritability and defiant attitudes.
• Persistent discomfort in social environments.
• Significant deterioration of work, social and family relationships.
• Duration of six months or more
• Behavioral alterations cannot be explained by the presence of other mental disorders or the ingestion of toxic substances and/or medications.

Causes of oppositional defiant disorder

The origins of this problem usually vary depending on the vicissitudes that each person goes through. However, there are some common guidelines that are replicated in cases of oppositional defiant disorder:

Causes of oppositional defiant disorder in children

First, the causes of oppositional defiant disorder in children may be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. On the one hand, the plays a transcendental role in the acquisition of this problem, since there may be family members who have these same behavioral patterns. In this sense, it is possible that behavioral problems are due to the fact that the telomeres found in DNA are shorter than those of other children.

Besides, some life situations can significantly influence behavior. In more concrete terms, the acquisition of oppositional and defiant attitudes can be linked to the learning obtained through observation of familiar situations.

Causes of Oppositional Defiant Disorder in Adults

The presence of other mental health disorders can interfere with antisocial and defiant behaviors. In this sense, there are diagnoses such as borderline personality disorder that give rise to a constant challenge from authorities. Although adults usually have better control of their emotions, many experience great discomfort through actions they take in work and social settings.

On the other hand, the consumption of toxic substances It may be another reason for this diagnosis. Like children, childhood experiences and genetic predisposition should not be left aside.

ymptoms of oppositional defiant disorder

Within this problem, some common manifestations occur that can be seen in several people. In this section we show you the main symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder in children and adults:

• Symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder in children: Among the most frequent observable behaviors, the presence of anger, impulsivity, refusal to carry out activities taught by older adults, vengeful and resentful attitudes, among others, can be noted. On the other hand, some children place the responsibility for their actions on other people as a defense mechanism.
• Symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder in aadults: In general terms, a lack of respect for labor authorities, consumption of toxic substances, inability to assume group tasks, marked variations in mood and sudden anger without further foundations can be perceived.

It should be noted that the presence of some symptoms in isolation does not necessarily represent the presence of oppositional defiant disorder. To arrive at an accurate diagnosis, an evaluation by a mental health professional is pertinent.

Oppositional defiant disorder treatment

To reduce the intensity and frequency of this type of behavior, it is crucial to develop strategies that allow an improvement in quality of life. For this reason, we will locate the treatments for oppositional defiant disorder:

Treatment of oppositional defiant disorder in children

In principle, the approach consists of provide tools that promote positive social interactions so that it is possible to manage problematic behaviors. In general, this usually occurs through a type of psychological therapy led by a specialized mental health professional.

On the other hand, it is important work with the child’s family environment so that the social environment assimilates the processes that are occurring. Among the most common therapeutic devices are cognitive-behavioral therapy, systemic therapy, play-based therapy, social skills training and psychoanalysis, among others. In very serious cases, the provision of psychiatric medication under professional supervision may be suggested.

Treatment of oppositional defiant disorder in adults

Like children, in the case of adults the need to have therapeutic support is usually raised to address behavioral problems of the patient. In fact, adults can have a more radical understanding of the effects of their actions to modify them. Among the most consolidated approaches are self-help groups, family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, among others.

In some cases, you can also choose consumption of psychotropic drugs, always under the supervision of a health professional. As alternative options, meditation is an activity that allows a decrease in the intensity of irritability.

This article is merely informative, at PsychologyFor we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

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